If there’s one constant I’ve observed in my years as a family photographer in Buffalo, it’s that many dads approach photo sessions with a mix of reluctance and uncertainty. While moms often initiate booking the session, dads and cameras don’t always have the most comfortable relationship. Today, I’m sharing my most effective strategy for helping fathers relax and shine during family photography.
Why Dads and Cameras Don’t Always Mix Well
Before diving into my #1 trick, it’s important to understand what’s happening beneath the surface. Many fathers associate photography with:
- Being told to pose unnaturally
- Feeling self-conscious about their appearance
- Pressure to perform or appear perfect
- Uncertainty about what to do with their hands or expressions
- Memories of uncomfortable school photos or formal portraits
The good news? Documentary-style photography naturally eliminates many of these concerns, but there’s one specific approach that transforms even the most camera-shy fathers.
My #1 Trick: Meaningful Activity Over Posing
My most powerful strategy for helping fathers feel more at ease is deceptively simple: I ask them to share something they love doing with their children.
Whether it’s building a backyard fort, cooking Sunday breakfast, playing catch, reading favorite stories, or teaching a skill – when dads focus on an activity they genuinely enjoy sharing with their kids, the magic happens naturally.
This approach works because:
- It shifts focus from “looking good” to simply being present
- It places dad in his zone of confidence and expertise
- It creates genuine interaction rather than manufactured poses
- It honors the unique relationship between father and child
- It allows authentic personality and connection to emerge
How This Approach Transforms Your Family Photography
When I use activities to help dads and cameras become better friends, the transformation in your photos is remarkable. Instead of stiff smiles and awkward postures, you’ll see:
- Genuine laughter and expressions
- Natural body language
- Authentic teaching moments
- Real connections between father and children
- The unique personality and parenting style that makes your family special
Mothers often tell me they’re moved to tears seeing these images because they capture a side of their partner they witness daily but rarely see preserved in photographs.
Planning Activity-Based Sessions for Camera-Shy Dads
If your family is planning a photography session and dad feels hesitant, consider these tips:
- Choose activities that genuinely reflect dad’s relationship with the kids
- Select comfortable locations where these activities naturally occur
- Wear everyday clothing that allows for movement and authenticity
- Discuss these activity ideas during our pre-session consultation
- Remind dad that following my documentary approach means minimal posing
Buffalo fathers who initially approached their session with hesitation frequently become my biggest advocates after experiencing this approach. There’s nothing more rewarding than hearing, “That wasn’t nearly as painful as I thought it would be!”
Ready to capture the authentic connection between dad and your children? Contact me to schedule your documentary family session in Buffalo! Father’s Day sessions are booking now for spring dates.
Looking for more family photography tips? Check out My #1 Trick for Overcoming Awkward Family Poses
